Marine conservation in the Vatu-I-Ra Seascape is a step closer to becoming a reality.

The Wildlife Conservation Society and the government are working on a Marine Spatial planning to identify which areas need protection.

Stakeholders have already identified areas within the Vatu-I-Ra Seascape that need proper management.

Acting Permanent Secretary for Fisheries, Sanaila Naqali says this method can be highly useful to Fiji.

The people of Tailevu, Ra, Bua and Lomaiviti were also represented in the discussions.

Tourism and fisheries in Vatu-I-Ra is estimated to contribute $71 million dollars to the economy each year.